Elephant bush care guide
Portulacaria afra
Also known as: Portulacaria, Variegated elephant bush, Spekboom
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Elephant bush
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- A summer grower: water well two or three days after the topsoil dries, as a guide, a little less in the hottest weeks.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- As it cools, water about a week after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 20 days
- Indoors, keep it on the dry side, watering lightly about two to three weeks after the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for Elephant bush
A sunny, airy spot as a guide: direct sun outdoors from spring to fall keeps the stems red and compact, and indoors it wants a bright window, since low light drops leaves and stretches the stems.
Overwintering Elephant bush
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
Kept dry it generally takes about 3°C, but frost drops the leaves; as a guide, move it to a bright window indoors when nights dip below 5°C and water little.
Fertilizing and repotting Elephant bush
Fertilizer
It needs little: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month from April to September, even less for the variegated form, and none in fall or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Elephant bush
- Overwatered in winter, it drops leaves and rots at the base.
- In weak indoor light the leaves shrink and the stems stretch.
- Hit by frost, it sheds its leaves all at once.
Tips for growing Elephant bush
- Pinching back the tips makes it branch into a fuller shape.
- Cuttings root easily if dried a few days before being set in soil.
- Wrinkled leaves mean it is thirsty; a good watering plumps them up.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
